HC Deb 17 February 1919 vol 112 cc531-2
17. Colonel YATE

asked the Secretary far India what steps are being taken by the Government of India for the repatriation of all Germans interned in India and the exclusion of Germans from India in the future?

Mr. MONTAGU

The Government of India have in contemplation the transfer out of India of all enemy persons interned and uninterned, subject to exceptions for cogent reasons. Further, they already possess adequate statutory powers enabling them to exclude or expel aliens at their discretion.

Colonel YATE

Will these powers be put in force?

Mr. MONTAGU

Presumably the Government of India will adopt the same policy as the home Government.

Colonel WEDGWOOD

Does that mean that the British-born wives of Germans will also be expelled from India?

Mr. MONTAGU

It was precisely because of cases of that kind I said it was "subject to exceptions for cogent reasons."

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

If the Government of India depend on home Government action, may I ask when the home Government will take action in this matter?

Mr. MONTAGU

My hon. Friend will appreciate that I am not the person to answer that question.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

I thought you might help it on.